Subd cmte tackles concern of IPs in San Simon

THE City Council committee on subdivision and landed estate chaired by Councilor Edgar S. Cabanlas yesterday discussed the request of the Tribe Higaunon in Barangay San Simon for assistance to members who are affected by the road widening and concreting project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

It may be recalled that Councilor Roger Abaday earlier reported about the plight of the affected families who are asking that they be included in the city’s resettlement project.

During the meeting, Tribal Leader Datu Lilo-an said many years ago barangay officials allowed residents to construct their houses in the area. He said about 218 families are affected by the road widening project.

Barangay Chair Fernando Edrolin said the barangay has requested the City Government to prioritize the affected residents for relocation.

A representative of the DPWH informed the committee that 60 families already received their compensation while some are still waiting for their tax declaration issue to be resolved.

Councilor Cabanlas said the city should have been informed about this project so that it can immediately respond to the resettlement needs of the constituents especially those affected by the huge projects.

“What would be our participation pagplastar sa mga tawo? Dili nako gusto nga maataw-ataw ang mga tawo labi na kung taga CDO,” he stressed.

As this developed, Councilor Cabanlas requested the DPWH to submit the names of affected residents including those who have already been paid.

He said the data will be forwarded to the City Housing and Urban Development Department (CHUDD) for discussion with the DPWH.